Teen Talk

Is This Love? How Can You Tell

It is not love when your partner…

Threatens to hurt you, your family and friends, or himself/herself if you don’t do what is ordered/demanded

Pinches, hits, slaps, kicks, punches, or strangles/chokes you

Forcing sexual activity and/or refusing birth control

This is abuse. Abuse is about power and control

Did you know?

You are not alone; 1 in 3 teens experiences abuse

Abuse has cycles and is predictable

Both boys and girls can be abused

It is not your fault

It can be stopped

Forcing sexual activity and/or refusing birth control

For help or more information call:

National Teen Dating Violence Hotline

1-866-331-9474

Turning Point Crisis Line

704-283-SAFE

How You Can Help

It’s never too early to teach self-respect. No one has the right to tell a pre-teen or teenager who to see, what to do, or what to wear. No one has the right to hit or control anyone else.

Myth

"It only happens to kids from broken or violent families."

Fact

Dating violence can happen to anyone, from all cultures, income levels, and educational backgrounds. Dating violence is NOT limited to families with a history of violence. It can occur on a first date or in a long-lasting relationship.

Myth

"It can’t happen to my child!"

Fact

Both boys and girls can be victims of dating violence. It can occur in any type of relationship- straight, gay, lesbian, or bisexual.

What To Look For

Sudden changes in clothes or make-up

Bruises, scratches, or other injuries

Failing grades or dropping out of school activities

Avoiding friends Difficulty making decisions

Sudden changes in mood or personality; becoming anxious or depressed, acting out, or being secretive